Safety Tips for Your Pet

Warm Weather:

  • Never leave your pet in a car if the outdoor temperature is more than 60 degrees.
  • If you absolutely have to take your pet in the car in temperatures that are higher than 60 degrees make sure you roll at least 2 windows halfway down (1 passenger and 1 driver’s side).  Remember to park in the shade and have water readily available for your pet.  The inside temperature of a car in the heat rises 1 degree per minute.
  • Always keep a leash, fresh water and food in your vehicle.
  • Make sure you have fresh water for your pet available at all times.  Pet’s become dehydrated faster than humans.  Longer hair animals become dehydrated faster than shorter hair animals.  Animals with smashed faces have a harder time in the heat.
  • Signs of dehydration are panting and vomiting.
  • If your pet is left outdoors in the warm weather months always have fresh water and food available for your pet.  Always provide a shaded area for your pet to take shelter.

Cold Weather:

  • Never leave your pet in your vehicle if the temperature is below 32 degrees.
  • If you absolutely have to take your pet in your vehicle when the temperature is below 32 degrees make sure you take at least one warm blanket.  Your pet will instinctively make a nest to keep warm.
  • Always have food, fresh water, blanket and a leash in your car in case you have a break down or an accident.
  • If you must leave your pet outdoors in cold weather make sure you have a warm  covered shelter for your pet.  Hay is great for animals to use for warmth.  As always leave plenty of food and fresh water for your pet.

Other Safety Information:

  • Always keep liquid potpourri and candles out of your pet’s reach. Liquid potpourri is toxic to your pet and can cause death.
  • The flame on a candle is like a magnet to kittens and cats. They tend to bat at them which can cause the candle to tip over causing possible fire or severe burns to your pet.
  • Strings on cat toys can easily become wrapped around your pet’s neck while they are playing. Allow your pet to only have access to these kinds of toys when you are home. Also be aware of the strings attached to your blinds.  Cats and kittens often like to play with these as well. This is a life threatening object to your pet.
  • Always use caution when your pet is around unfamiliar animals. Larger animals can quickly over power smaller animals. Try a slow introduction and do not leave them unattended.

Animals With Special Needs

We sometimes help injured animals as well as those with illnesses, heartworm, or feline immunodeficiency virus. We work with abused and unsocialized animals so that they can become adoptable pets. These animals can be “sponsored” with a regular donation - a great opportunity for those who can’t adopt.